There was a time when it was commonplace for fields to be fertilised by manure rather than packaged fertilisers. For those of us lucky enough to have some country walks right on our doorstep, you may be surprised by the hidden gems you could find on your route round – even if you have to get your hands dirty.
Gardening expert Stephen Anderton has provided a useful tip for keen gardeners looking to grow a wide variety of plants amid the wonderful greenery. His Saturday column in The Times offered some insight into how to add to soil or land to increase its fertility without having to purchase a packet.
Stephen suggested picking up some sheep dung when out and about in the beautiful countryside. Keeping a few dollops of this substance can be the base of your very own perfectly good liquid feed for your garden plants.
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He recommends keeping it in a lidded bucket in a couple of gallons of water. Then, the recommendation is to dilute it into a watering can with a disposable old ladle.
If the mix remains too strong then it will burn the roots but if it’s diluted, it is perfectly acceptable to use. Be prepared for a dreadful stench when the lid comes off, but as soon as it hits the ground, the pong should substantially lessen.
Using sheep manure for the garden is not a new idea, with it being used all over the world for many years. It is referred to as cold manure due to having low nitrogen content which makes it an excellent addition to any garden.
Like other animal manures, sheep poo is a natural slow-release fertiliser, with its nutrients providing adequate nourishment for many a garden. It is high in phosphorus and potassium, both of which are essential elements for optimal plant growth.
It helps to establish strong roots, defend against pests and blossom into vibrant and productive plants. Sheep manure is safe for both vegetables and flower gardens alike and will have your plants blooming like you’ve never seen before.